HYDERABAD: For those disappointed at Covid-19 wonder drug 2-DG (2-Deoxy-D-Glucose) being priced at a hefty Rs 990 per sachet, here’s some good news.
More manufacturers are expected to jump into the fray for churning out sachets of the oral drug that is found to help speed up recovery and reduce oxygen dependence.
Not only has Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), which is part of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has licenced the process knowhow for synthesis of 2-DG to Hyderabad-based Lee Pharma through a non-exclusive agreement, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) too has invited expressions of interest (EoIs) from pharma companies interested in manufacturing this drug.
The drug was developed by scientists at DRDO’s Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences and licenced to Hyderabad-based pharma major Dr Reddy’s Laboratories with a promise of ensuring accessibility and affordability.
Lee Pharma will be filing an application seeking approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for manufacturing and commercialising the drug from their formulations facility located at the Duvvada SEZ in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
CSIR-IICT director Dr Srivari Chandrashekar said CSIR-CCMB played a role in the development of 2-DG as they tested it on SARS-CoV-2 viral cultures and said the agreement with Lee Pharma is aimed at increasing affordable treatment options.
On the other hand, DRDO has set June 17 as the last date for submitting applications for EoIs for transfer of technology for manufacturing 2-DG.
“The EoI submitted will be scrutinised by a committee.
Only up to 15 industries will be given ToT on their capabilities, technical handholding capability of DRDO and on First Come First Served Basis,” DRDO said.